Paula Kay McLellan (née Newcomb)

Paula Kay McLellan passed away on March 17 at the age of 67 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Paula was the beloved wife of Keith McLellan, a devoted mother to Kiel (spouse: Isis), Connor (spouse: Jessica), Morgan (spouse: Anthony), and Gillian (spouse: Ryan), and a loving grandmother to Thea, Everett, Jordana, Julian, and Audrey.

She was predeceased by her brother Brian (2024) and is survived by his wife Susan, as well as her brothers Roger and Doug and their wives Debbie and Edie.

Paula was born in Connersville, Indiana, to her loving parents, Paul E. Newcomb (2019) and Ina L. Newcomb. She later relocated to upstate New York when her father became a Free Methodist pastor in the area.

She attended Houghton College and Roberts Wesleyan College, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Houghton College. It was while beginning her full-time Grade 5 teaching position in Perry, New York, that she met Keith through a Canadian relative. At the same time, Keith had just begun his first full-time role in the technology industry in Ottawa. They were married in New York State and chose to begin their married life in Ottawa. Paula immigrated to Canada, where she went on to spend more than 40 years in the Ottawa area.

As Paula settled into her new life in Ottawa, she built a warm and loving family, creating a home where everyone felt cared for, supported, and never alone. Surrounded by her husband, children, and grandchildren, she was the heart of her family, and her love shaped each of their lives for the better.

Paula was deeply caring and carried so much for the people she loved, often putting others’ needs before her own. She did it with grace, without expectation, simply because that was who she was. When things felt uncertain, Paula was the one who kept everything steady.

Paula worked as an early childhood educator, a role that reflected her natural patience, kindness, and ability to nurture those in her care. She had a gift for supporting and guiding young children and left a lasting impression on the families she touched.

A devoted Christian, Paula’s faith was a steady foundation throughout her life. She found comfort in scripture and Bible study, living out her beliefs through the care and love she showed to others.

Paula found joy in simple, meaningful moments, doing puzzles and playing board games with Keith, and bringing her family together, especially during the holidays, where her warmth, generosity, and thoughtfulness made each occasion feel truly special.

Throughout her illness, the nurses and doctors who cared for Paula often spoke of how lovely her family was, a reflection of the love, strength, and values she instilled in those around her. Her love was expressed in the everyday things she did, in the quiet ways she showed up for others. That quiet strength will remain a lasting part of her family.

Paula will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her husband, children, grandchildren, her many longtime friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Should anyone wish to offer their support, the family asks that donations toward ovarian cancer research be made in Paula’s memory at:

https://fundraisemyway.cancer.ca/campaigns/In-loving-memory-of-Paula-Kay-McLellan

A celebration of life will be held at Beechwood Funeral Home & Cemetery on April 11 at 10:00 a.m., with a reception and interment to follow at the same location. All are welcome to attend; however, please note that space may be limited at the reception.